Comparing Aaron Ekblad and Erik Gudbranson Head to Head
Few NHL comparisons generate more debate than Aaron Ekblad vs Erik Gudbranson. The numbers reveal a genuinely competitive matchup — Aaron Ekblad takes 4 categories while Erik Gudbranson claims 2, making this one of the closer head to head comparisons at the D position. Every statistical category matters in a matchup this tight.
Aaron Ekblad's Goals of 123 compared to Erik Gudbranson's 35 represents a 251.4% advantage — dramatically better than their counterpart in this critical category. Erik Gudbranson falls 70.8% below the career average of 120 in this category while Aaron Ekblad exceeds it. It is the single most decisive number in this comparison and the clearest statistical argument for Aaron Ekblad's edge.
The most competitive category in this matchup is Games Played, where Aaron Ekblad posts 820 against Erik Gudbranson's 854 — a gap of just 4.1%. Erik Gudbranson can point to this as evidence that the overall comparison is closer than the final 4-2 tally suggests. In any debate, Games Played is the statistical ammunition for the Erik Gudbranson side.
Defensive play in the NHL is measured through a combination of offensive contribution and plus/minus rating. Elite defensemen contribute points while anchoring their team's defensive structure — a balance that defines the position's greatest players.
The verdict favors Aaron Ekblad — 4 categories to 2 — but Erik Gudbranson makes this far from a one-sided debate. Anyone building the case for Erik Gudbranson has real statistical ammunition particularly in Games Played where the gap narrows to just 4.1%. The numbers have spoken, but the argument will continue.
Who is better, Aaron Ekblad or Erik Gudbranson?
Aaron Ekblad holds the statistical edge, winning 4 of 6 categories in this career comparison. Aaron Ekblad's Goals of 123 versus Erik Gudbranson's 35 is the most decisive factor — a 251.4% difference.
How do Aaron Ekblad and Erik Gudbranson compare in Goals?
Aaron Ekblad career Goals: 123. Erik Gudbranson career Goals: 35. Aaron Ekblad leads by 251.4% — dramatically ahead in this key D metric.
Who had the better overall career, Aaron Ekblad or Erik Gudbranson?
Based on career statistics, Aaron Ekblad edges Erik Gudbranson 4-2 across key categories. Aaron Ekblad's Goals of 123 leads Erik Gudbranson's 35 by 251.4%, providing the clearest statistical evidence of the career advantage.
